For Judith
Shedding old hurts and burdens
along with the ex and, finally, the house —
the furniture packed (what he hasn’t
wrecked or hidden) and the paperwork,
in all it’s complications, nearly done —
she gets her long, long tresses cut.
No more winding them into a rope
at the back of her neck, or coiled
like a snake, heavy on her head.
New wings curve lightly to her cheeks,
and her whole face is bathed in light.
A sudden turn, a pivot, into freedom!
Sharing this with Friday Writings #62: Pivot, at Poets and Storytellers United.
"what he hasn't wrecked"... is ominous. Freedom from that must be such a relief. And a makeover is a good way to signal a new beginning.
ReplyDeleteA thoroughly nasty, abusive man.
DeleteLove this Rosemary, too many women are saddled with a very unhappy marriage, sometimes even dangerous. I had three years of freedom, after thirteen things were bad off plus she had a romance with one of her students, an adult for a medical class. My freedom included a motorcycle, a little dating, and lots of reminiscing. My second, her first, time will expire this February with 50 years. We plan to renew our vows.
ReplyDelete..
It's lovely for both you and Mrs Jim that your second time around turned out so happy. The nasty fellow in the poem was my friend's second and I don't think she is the least bit interested in trying matrimony again. But she is having a good time recovering herself — quite a journey! — and finding new friendships.
DeleteWhen it is necessary for freedom and sanity, this pivot is an essential move. How wonderfully you describe it Rosemary.
ReplyDeleteI just love the part about her hair and what cutting it means in a deeper sense. Brilliant.
ReplyDeleteAs it's quite recent, it was very apparent.
DeleteI hope this next phase of her life brings a lot of happiness and freedom.
ReplyDeleteShe's doing well.
DeletePoor Judith. There are so many like her. I am pleased she has some respite now and found some peace....from.Cressida
ReplyDeleteOne thing that helps is that she has found her own powerful poetic voice.
DeleteI find that optimistic. A new turn in life.
ReplyDeleteYes indeed!
DeletePerfect example of a 'pivot'. Cutting your hair, and cutting out Mr. Nasty.
ReplyDeleteI'm glad it worked for the prompt.
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